Hinterlehen estate

Farming issue remains unresolved after lightning demolition

Parts of the Saalfelden farm have already been demolished in recent weeks

(Bild: Photographer: Anna Pirato)

The "Krone" reported on Pinzgauer Hinterlehen Gut: eviction, flash demolition and missing parts of the file were the main topics. However, the crucial question of whether the new farm owner is also a farmer remains unanswered.

New questions about Hinterlehen Gut are now popping up on a weekly basis. The main question is whether the sale of the farm in Saalfelden was legal. Because, as reported, only farmers are allowed to buy agricultural land. This is intended to put a stop to real estate speculation and protect green spaces. This is examined by the respective land transaction commission in the district. Simon Heilig-Hofbauer (Greens) requested access to the procedural file on the Hinterlehen estate last week - and did not receive it. "Attempts are now also being made to block parliamentary scrutiny," the politician is certain. They are referring to official secrecy and data protection.

We are now demanding that a debate on the refusal of access takes place in the next session of the state parliament.

Simon Heilig-Hofbauer, Landtagsabgeordneter Grüne

A debate on this is to take place next Wednesday at the parliamentary session. Prior to this, Heilig-Hofbauer had attempted to shed light on the matter with a question to Provincial Councillor Martin Zauner (FPÖ). However, the answers were not satisfactory for Heilig-Hofbauer. "For example, it was not explained how the Land Transfer Commission came to the conclusion that the buyer was also a farmer," said the member of parliament, adding: "That is quite astonishing." Because this is crucial for the processing of the purchase. Interesting: The resumption of the land transfer procedure is currently being examined.

No permits for a possible new building
Partial demolition of the farm has already begun in recent weeks, and without a permit. This was granted in a flash procedure. However, as can be seen from the inquiry, there is no permit for an extension, new building or conversion. "Why would you demolish something without having an approved new building? That seems dubious to me," says Heilig-Hofbauer. An individual permit would be required to build on grassland.

In the meantime, the fruit trees have also been felled, although these would be necessary in the prescribed management concept.